Chastity Bono

Chaz (né Chastity) Bono, the 40-year-old daughter of Cher and the late Sonny Bono, is undergoing a gender change — a transition that began shortly after his birthday earlier this year, his publicist said on Thursday.

"Chaz, after many years of consideration, has made the courageous decision to honor his true identity," Bono's publicist, Howard Bragman, said in a statement. "He is proud of his decision and grateful for the support and respect that has already been shown by his loved ones."

"It is Chaz's hope that his choice to transition will open the hearts and minds of the public regarding this issue, just as his coming out did. We ask that the media respect Chaz's privacy during this long process."

Now a civil rights advocate, journalist and author, Bono came out to his parents at age ... read more 60 Comments